Page 97 - School Bus Operators and Attendants Handbook

not to use words like “fire” or “accident” as many of the passengers might become alarmed.
Also mention it’s a remote possibility, but we want to be prepared.
B. Select three passengers in the front and three in the rear of the bus to be your Leaders and
Helpers. If you have adults on board make sure you use them as Leaders as they will
understand your instructions and will be a great help to you in case of an actual emergency.
For your helpers, select students who have already gone through an evacuation at school or
students that are regular bus riders. This will make your explanation much easier.
C. Explain to them in detail their functions as Leaders and Helpers, so you won’t experience any
problems if an emergency situation arises. Most important is to show them how the
emergency doors and windows actually open and advise the Leaders they must take the
passengers at least 100 feet from the bus. Too many times we take for granted that everyone
knows where the emergency exits are and how they open.
D. The final step is to demonstrate the back door exit, otherwise the passengers who have not
gone through an actual evacuation may attempt to jump and this may result in a serious
injury to the individual or your helpers.

Once you have finished your evacuation presentation, change the subject a little by saying, “Let’s get
started now on our great trip.” The entire process may take five minutes.

Page 97 of 149
Emergency Evacuation Planning